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Let’s face it, there’s nothing more relaxing than a nice cup of tea, except perhaps putting your feet up for a while in the company of a good book. Combine the two and you’re well on your way to forgetting your troubles. Throw in a nice hot bath and they may never get you out again.
So in honour of Afternoon Tea Week, we thought we’d take a look at some great reads that pair perfectly with a cuppa – fun and entertaining books that you can slip in and out of without losing the plot, either literally or metaphorically, and leave your worries at the cover.
1) Enjoy some paintings
If you’re an art lover then what could be better than plunging into a treasure trove of famous paintings and lost masterpieces contained in a beautiful vintage collection? The Observer’s Book of Painting and Graphic Art by William Gaunt from 1976, feels like it’s from a bygone age, packed with detailed illustrations that include Cezanne, Michelangelo and many others taken straight from the National Gallery’s permanent collection.
Paintings
2) Or perhaps a little poetry
Poems are a wonderful way to feel powerful emotions quickly, perfect for a short break or to enjoy while the tea is brewing. A couple of stands-outs from our huge collection are the first edition anthology of the Penguin Poetry of the Thirties from 1964, containing work by Lewis, Spender, Day and MacNeice, or if you’re looking to stop the clocks entirely, then the lovely collection of WH Auden Selected Poetry from 1962 is a real masterpiece.
3) Pick up a Comic
Comics are a huge part of growing up and the ultimate quick read, so what could be better than returning to your childhood with a beautifully preserved classic with just a hint of the patina of age about it. Sick, Sick, Sick – a Guide to Non Confident Living by Jules Feiffer from 1960, for instance, is a delightful story that still feels remarkably contemporary, with characters that include dancers, artists, stressed-out corporate executives and an 11-year-old boy who already feels as if life has passed him by.
4) Or lose yourself in a Ladybird
Put the kettle on, make yourself comfy and then learn an entirely new subject with a classic Ladybird. As well as looking absolutely beautiful on a shelf or table, the range of subjects they cover is astonishing – the weather, what to look for inside a church, gardens, sailing and boating, a charming look at London (spoiler alert – it’s changed somewhat), and of course the wonderful ‘How It Works’ collection that covers everything from photography to farm machinery. There’s even a Ladybird for Tea itself!
Time to put the kettle on.
Love this book selection? Then discover our full collection here
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